By Our Reporter

The President of the African Public Interest Lawyers Union (APIL), Chief Adaze Andrew Emwanta, has congratulated incoming congressman Odus Evbagharu, a US based politician of Edo origin, on his victory in the United States mid-term elections for the Texas House of Representatives, District 135. Evbagharu, whose parents are Benin descendants from Edo State Nigeria was born in London but later moved to the US for his education. His mother is from the Aihie family in Benin City.

Evbagharu, who ran on the Democratic Party ticket, defeated his Republican opponent, Liz Ramos, by a wide margin. With about 99 per cent of votes counted, he polled 37,727 votes, representing 67.4 per cent, against Ramos’ 18,267 votes, or 32.6 per cent, a margin of about 19,500 votes.

In a congratulatory message, Emwanta, who is also an Edo indigene and a Nigerian based politician , described the victory as a source of pride for Edo people at home and in the diaspora.

“His win shows the confidence the people of his district have placed in him. It is also a powerful example to young Africans everywhere that vision, hard work and service can open doors at the highest levels of public life,” he said.

Emwanta said he was particularly encouraged to see a young man of Edo extraction take his place in a legislative chamber in a highly politically competitive US State like Texas. He expressed the hope that the lawmaker-elect would use the platform to champion justice, equity and the rule of law, and to serve all his constituents with integrity.

“We wish him a fruitful tenure and God’s guidance as he takes up this responsibility. APIL stands ready to support efforts that advance public interest, human rights and good governance,” he added.

The APIL President concluded by congratulating the lawmaker-elect, saying, “Edo, Nigeria and Africa are all proud of you.”